So said George Thomson, president of Selkirk RFC, after the popular 29-year-old utility back was appointed 2008 Royal Burgh Standard Bearer on Friday night, writes Andrew Keddie.

“He has been a great servant of the club, both on and off the field, and I know he will be a fine ambassador for the town in the weeks and months ahead,” added Mr Thomson.

Guy Blair displayed his talent with the oval ball at Selkirk High and duly came through the ranks of Selkirk Youth Club, where he was an outstanding stand-off.

He made a winning debut for Selkirk RFC’s 1st XV on October 12, 1996, in a league encounter with Jordanhill and soon made the number 10 shirt his own.

His contribution to keeping the Souters in the second tier of Scottish club rugby was recognised in 2004/05 when he was appointed first team captain.

“This recognised his leadership qualities and the esteem in which he was held by his team-mates,” said Mr Thomson. “He was a truly great captain.”

Mr Thomson told The Wee Paper: “It must be remembered that, 12 years after making his debut, Guy is still an important member of the side which has just won promotion to Premier One.”

Although David Cassidy has now assumed the role of the team’s goal-kicker, Guy Blair, in his pomp, was a prodigious points scorer with the boot.

“His ability to kick goals has helped the club to many victories against the odds,” recalled past president John Smail, who will cast the Merchant Company flag this year.

“I remember it was the first game of the campaign five seasons ago and, after scoring a try in the corner, we were trailing Kelso by one point at Poynder Park.

“Guy was under tremendous pressure but still managed to slot a magnificent kick which gave us the win and got our season off to a great start.

“As a player he has always had a cool head and reads the game very well. Off the field he is a thoroughly decent man.”